Synopsis:

Many of the problems we face in the modern world
revolve around comprehending, controlling, and designing
multi-scale, interconnected systems. Networked systems,
for example, facilitate the diffusion and creation of
ideas, the physical transportation of people and goods,
and the distribution and redistribution of energy.
Complex systems such as the human body and ecological
systems are typically highly balanced, flexible, and
robust, but also susceptible to systemic collapse. These
complex problems almost always have economic, social, and
technological aspects.

The basic aim of this introductory interdisciplinary
course is to present a suite of theories and ideas that
have evolved in the pursuit of understanding complex
systems. The central focus will be on understanding
small-scale mechanisms that give rise to observed
systemic phenomena. Students will be encouraged to see
how different areas connect to each other and, just as
importantly, where analogies break down.